Addictions can present alone or in combination with other addictions. Gambling, like other addictions, is escalating. Eighty percent of gamblers consider suicide following devastating losses, with one in five actually attempting it.

Top Five Signs of a Gambling Problem

Chasing Money ~ This refers to a gambler returning the net day to win back present loses. While in a new addiction, this makes sense. To anyone else, from any other point of view, more betting equals more problems, not a solution.

Higher Stakes ~ As with other addictions, use starts out small and eventually becomes unmanageable. Constant upping the ante, so to speak, is a common sign of a problem.

Disconnection ~ Problem gamblers put their priorities on hold for their gambling. This means neglecting relationships, poor performance at work or school and a failing home life. When life takes a back seat to gambling, you know a problem exists.

Betrayal ~ Lying to loved ones is a definite sign of a problem. This doesn’t have to be a huge lie, something as simple as hiding a betting slip or claiming a win, even though they experienced a loss.

Extreme Financing ~ This sign of addiction often shows up late in the time line. Running out of money does not stop the action. When bank accounts run dry and friends and family stop loaning money, some turn to extreme measures such as stealing, lying, forgery or fraud to finance the gambling addiction